"By Thy Words"

I copied this fun little calendar of sorts that says, "I have read my scriptures every day during 2011." Each letter is divided into sections with a number for everyday of each month. 365 days. So far I have 20 of the possible 26 days filled in! I think that is a respectable streak. I taped the page in my closet, right above where I hang my bra, so there would be no missing my reminder.
A few of the sections are marked with eyebrow pencil.

I finished the Book of Mormon last week, and so began my first serious study of the New Testament (confession time!) since Institute my freshman year at Snow. I am pretty siked about it. Finally I am reading along with our Sunday School class. I am also trying to jot a note each time I read. Keeping a 'scripture journal' is my Momma's idea. I have been logging away a little thought after each session. A tidbit of knowledge I absorbed, or an impression. Maybe some answers to prayer will be in there as well.

This is what I wrote last night.

• St. Matthew 12-13:

"For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." This one got me in the heart tonight! How intriguing - that we shall have all of our words recalled and either be saved or damned by them. I will certainly be guarding mine a little more, speaking more softly to my children, giving more encouragement, more compliments, more love with my voice. And my pen!

• Matt 13: 54-56:

Jesus had siblings. Did they know how amazing and important he was? Did they love and honor him, follow him? Did they testify of him, or keep quiet? Do I?

So that's it. Verbatim. I wanted to embellish tonight, but I resisted. It's been good for me to ponder whilst I read about what I am really learning from the words. What deeper meaning is there for me to find. What does the Lord want me to know today? It's fun. Try it out.

This evening I am considering the phrase, "By thy words" and hoping that my words will justify me at the last day. I said a few today that weren't super sweet. Mostly towards Talia, who is the queen of whine. (Seriously, it was one long wail after another today.) Not that this justifies my words towards her. I am the grownup, right?

Anyways . . . I shall be ever aware of my words. Written and spoken.

P.S. The photo above features Roo with Jam on her face. Not scratches. Girls can't get ready in the morning without a flower on your bean. "Town" requires headgear.